June Is National Pet Adoption Month

June is National Pet Adoption Month! If you’re looking to add a new four-footed member to your family, head to your local shelter or ask your vet about adopting. Every year thousands of cats and dogs are dumped in shelters by irresponsible, careless owners, or picked up as strays. While many will find loving homes, many more will wind up being euthanized. This is why it’s so important to adopt from shelters and rescues rather than breeders.

Do some research, before you head to a shelter; some breeds of dogs and cats may be better suited to your individual situation than others, and it’s good to know that ahead of time. You’ll also want to take the time to make sure everyone in the household is ready for pet ownership. It’s a tremendous responsibility and should not be taken on lightly.

Make sure you are prepared for everything from what licensing requirements your town has, to finding the number for an animal urgent care. Ask your vet to recommend a good class for people preparing to be pet owners if you haven’t owned one before.

If you’re planning to adopt a pet as a gift for someone, please reconsider. Pets should never be given as gifts. If you want proof, visit a shelter just after Easter and see how many bunnies have been dumped there!

When you do go to adopt, be prepared to fill out some paperwork and give references (usually your vet and a close friend or two) and if you rent, your landlord’s contact info. Spend some time with the animal you’re interested in and if you already have a pet, it can be a good idea to bring them along to see how they get along with the potential new family member.

Pets are wonderful. They bring us joy and comfort and can actually make us healthier. In return, they depend on us to give them love and care. If you are not prepared to make a 10- to 20-year commitment, you are not ready for pet ownership.